Fresno County Fires Signal Start Of Busy Fire Season

Recent blazes mark the beginning of wildfire risk in the region.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 12:48am

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Fresno County, California has seen an increase in grass fires over the past two weeks, including the Pin Fire near Millerton Lake, officially marking the start of the busy fire season. Fire officials are urging residents to prepare by creating defensible space around their homes and having an evacuation plan in case of a wildfire.

Why it matters

Wildfires are a major threat to foothill and mountain communities in Fresno County, and the early start to the fire season raises concerns about a potentially dangerous and prolonged wildfire season ahead. Residents need to take proactive steps to protect their homes and families.

The details

The Pin Fire burned 6.5 acres and was quickly contained by firefighters from the new Fire Station 72, which has upgraded equipment and resources compared to the previous station. Fresno County Fire is also bringing back 50 wildland firefighters to gear up for the season. Investigators are still looking into the cause of the Pin Fire.

  • In the last two weeks, Fresno County has seen an increase in grass fire activity.
  • The Pin Fire near Millerton Lake occurred on April 1, 2026.

The players

Zach Irion

Fresno County Fire Captain who says the recent fires have marked the start of the busy fire season.

Joey Weimer

Responding Captain who says the new Fire Station 72 and its equipment were a 'game changer' in quickly containing the Pin Fire.

Fresno County Fire

The local fire department that is preparing for the upcoming wildfire season by bringing back 50 wildland firefighters.

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What they’re saying

“Just in the last two weeks, we've seen an increase in fire activity when it comes to grass fires. On the west side near Kettleman City, we had a fire that was just over 1,200 acres, and then the Pin Fire incident yesterday.”

— Zach Irion, Fresno County Fire Captain

“Having the help of patrol 72 was a game changer for me because I was able to get it out fast, and it's faster than other type 3 engines coming from another station because they are right here and they are close.”

— Joey Weimer, Responding Captain

What’s next

Investigators are looking into the cause of the Pin Fire.

The takeaway

The early start to the Fresno County fire season is a concerning sign that residents need to take proactive steps to prepare their homes and families for what could be a dangerous and prolonged wildfire season ahead.